Page 59 - Mann Ki Baat January, 2023

them, now more than ever.
Realising the need
for increasing people’s
understanding of wetlands,
World Wetlands Day is
nd
celebrated each year on 2
February to raise awareness
about wetlands. This year’s
theme is “It’s Time for Wetlands
Restoration,” which highlights
the urgent need to prioritize
wetland restoration.
In India, we are reversing
the global trend of shrinking
wetlands. With Prime Minister
Narendra Modi making
sustainability a key aspect of
development, there has been
an overall improvement in how
India cares for its wetlands. As a
result, India is now a land of 75
Ramsar Sites or wetlands sites
of International importance,
making this the largest network
of Ramsar Sites for any country
in South Asia. This historic
th
milestone achieved in the 75
year of India’s Independence
adds more to the nation’s
pride!
The Government is making
rigorous and sustained
efforts towards biodiversity
conservation, with special
emphasis on wetlands. With
the recently launched ‘Amrit
Dharohar’ scheme announced
in the Union Budget 2023-24
for encouraging optimal use
of wetlands, and enhancing

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